Friday 16 May 2014

"Holidaymaker trampled to death by herd of cattle while walking across field with his wife..."

... and two dogs"

Peter Jakeman, 62, who was visiting the area from his home town in Callington, Cornwall, was walking across a field on the Okeover Estate in Ashbourne when the tragedy unfolded.

Mr Jakeman, described as 'one of nature's gentlemen', was treated for blood loss and chest injuries after the stampede took place...

On average, one person per year is killed by cattle in the UK, with nearly 500 hurt in attacks by animals from 2005 to 2013.

It is thought attacks usually take place due to dogs being present or calves being in the field when walkers approach.

The British Mountaineering Council said dogs should be kept on a lead and, if cattle appear unsettled, walkers should move away as carefully and quietly as possible.

A spokesman said if people feel threatened they should let go of their dog's lead - if they are holding one - and try not to make any noise orfast movements.

5 comments:

A K Haart said...

In our experience, cows with calves rarely show much interest in walkers, but if there is a dog around it's a different matter.

Ian Hills said...

Perhaps cows should wear high viz jackets....

Mark Wadsworth said...

AKH, yes, there's usually a dog involved.

IH, I don't think that would help, the cows would just be in a permanent state of rage (if we accept the myth that seeing bright colours makes them angry).

JuliaM said...

"...and try not to make any noise orfast movements."

That advice makes no sense - cattle aren't predators!

James Higham said...

Could happen to anyone really.